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World-famous Peak Farms Christmas trees sold at State Farmers Market

For the first time in 27 years, the world-famous Peak Farms from Ashe County is at the State Farmers Market.

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By
Leslie Moreno
, WRAL multimedia journalist
RALEIGH, N.C. — For the first time in 27 years, the world-famous Peak Farms from Ashe County is at the State Farmers Market.

The trees have been to the White House and the Governor's Mansion.

"We are selling trees like crazy," said Ann Estes, who owns Peak Farms with her husband and son.

Shopper Alex Fanay picked his Christmas tree from their batch on Friday.

"I really like the smell of it, and it's a nice presence to have instead of a fake tree," said Fanay.

The trees are so popular they've made their way to the White House in 2008, 2012, 2018 and again this year.

"It's amazing. It's the biggest honor you can have in the tree business going to the Bushes. I don't know if anybody can top that. That was the most amazing experience I've ever had," said Estes.

The 18.5 foot Fraser fir will be displayed in the Blue Room at the White House.

"I did not know that ... I mean, that makes them better," Fanay said after learning his Christmas tree was the same as the one at the White House.

All of the trees at the State Farmers Market were cut on Thursday or Friday.

Estes said a good way to know if a tree is fresh is by gently pulling on the limb. If nothing comes off, then the tree is hydrated and fresh.

But, Estes added that some growers may experience a shortage if they didn't plant enough trees last year. However, she said that she has more than enough.

"It takes more than just good care and good weather," said Estes.

It’s a year long commitment, according to Estes.

"My husband and son know how to grow a tree. They're very good at it. They have a lot of years of experience -- we started in 1979," she added.

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